The Case of the Sharp-Eyed Jeweller

Preparation Time:

Revision Time:

Class

Type of Lesson

2 periods (approx. 40–45 minutes each)

1 period (approx. 30 minutes)

Class 8

Prose

About the Lesson

The Case of the Sharp-Eyed Jeweller by Nicolas Bentley is a detective-style short story that shows how sharp observation, quick thinking, and common sense can solve complex problems.

Text /Summary/Critical Analysis

“A dramatic book-cover illustration showing a jeweller’s shop window filled with glittering antique rings and necklaces. Above the window, the golden signboard reads ‘Regnier’s Jewels.’ A magnifying glass overlays the scene, symbolising sharp observation. Style: vintage poster, clean serif lettering, rich warm tones.” — A magnifying glass highlights a sparkling diamond ring among a display of luxurious jewelry, embodying the meticulous scrutiny central to "The Case of the Sharp-Eyed Jeweller."

Title cover illustration of Regnier’s jewellery shop with glowing jewels and a magnifying glass symbolizing vigilance. — Antique Elegance: Regnier's Jewels Display with Parisian Charm and Vigilant Craftsmanship.

“Inside Regnier’s jewellery shop, William Morris, the sharp-eyed assistant in a neat suit, leans slightly over the counter with a calm but alert expression. His keen eyes are focused as he arranges antique rings on a tray. The lighting highlights his seriousness and vigilance. Style: realistic, soft shading, 1930s atmosphere.” — A moonlit street frames the elegant Regnier’s jewellery shop, where inside, the sharp-eyed William Morris meticulously arranges antique rings, embodying the sophistication and attention to detail of the 1930s era.

Questions/Answers/ Assessments

“A broad-shouldered American customer with a red face, rainbow-coloured tie, and chewing gum stands confidently at the jewellery counter. His grey suit looks slightly out of place in the elegant shop. Close-up on his gum-chewing and flashy style, creating an impression of arrogance and deception. Style: cinematic realism with suspenseful mood.” — A flamboyant man in a pinstripe suit and rainbow tie surveys luxury jewelry, his extravagant style raising eyebrows.

“A young woman in a bright yellow zig-zag patterned coat and matching sandals stands outside the shop, staring not at the jewellery display but across the street at a funeral undertaker’s window. Her purse looks worn, her face tense, and the background shows gravestone photographs. Style: storybook illustration, contrasting colours to suggest suspicion.” — Young woman in a vibrant yellow coat ponders solemnly at the undertaker's display, standing amidst a street lined with vibrant autumn leaves, her gaze lingering past the sparkling jewels.

Woman in vintage attire examines a jeweled ring in a cozy, antique shop with jewelry displays. Soft light filters through large windows. — Miss Susskind, calm and composed, carefully inspects a piece of jewelry in Regnier’s elegant showroom, embodying her sensible and practical nature.

PAUL ACADEMY

The Case of the Sharp-Eyed Jeweller

About the Lesson

Text /Summary/Critical Analysis

Questions/Answers/ Assessments